Women who smoke during their pregnancy or even through a portion of the pregnancy, put their unborn child at risk for
many complications during pregnancy and after delivery. Smoking accounts for 10% of infant mortality, 20%-30% of low
birth weight and increased risk for spontaneous abortion and complicated birth [3]. Tobacco smoke introduces greater than
4000 potentially teratogenic chemicals into cardiovascular circulation [4]. Nicotine from cigarettes has a dose-dependent
effect that causes vasoconstriction and decreases the amount of blood and oxygen that reaches the fetus [3]. Women who
smoke have a 30% higher chance of delivering prematurely [4]. Nicotine readily crosses the placenta and can enter the
amniotic fluid, fetal circulation and can be absorbed through the skin of the fetus [4]. Long-term nicotine exposure during
gestation may reduce nutrient supply and have a direct effect on the cell disposition for genetic instability. This oxidative
stress can cause a nicotine induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) which can result in mitochondrial DNA damage making
the fetus more prone to have genetic instabilities such as developing lung cancer [4]. Studies have shown that between 25%
and 60% of pregnant smokers quit smoking spontaneously when they learn they are pregnant [2]. With this said, teaching
smoking cessation is vital to women of childbearing age. Smoking cessation provides immediate and long-term benefits
for pregnant women and their young children.